Aston Villa are closing in on the signing of OGC Nice forward Evann Guessand, with a €35 million deal now all but agreed between the two clubs. The 24-year-old is expected to fly to England on Wednesday, August 6, to undergo his medical, with personal terms on a five-year contract currently being finalised.
Softfootball can confirm the agreement, which includes bonuses, marks the end of a transfer saga that has stretched across much of the summer.
Guessand has had interest from elsewhere, notably Crystal Palace and Saudi side Neom SC, but his preference was always clear he wanted a move to either the Premier League or the Bundesliga.
That clarity helped Villa win the race for his signature, especially after the player turned down a lucrative offer from Neom SC in July.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also confirmed the development on his official X account, stating:
“Aston Villa are closing in on Evann Guessand deal with OGC Nice and player’s camp.
“Negotiations for €35m fee at final stages with details being sorted between clubs. Player said yes to #AVFC with details of his contract also being finalised.”
The Ivorian forward had a standout season for Nice, scoring 13 goals and registering 10 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions. His performances have caught the eye not only in France but also across Europe, with many tipping him for a step up.
Nice manager Franck Haise had already hinted that Guessand’s time at the club was coming to an end. Speaking back in May after the final Ligue 1 game, Haise admitted the club would struggle to keep him, especially amid financial constraints and the need to refresh the squad.
Last month, he doubled down, telling reporters there was a “90% chance” Guessand would move on this summer.
Aston Villa have not been active in this summer window but have done well so far to avert interest for star players in Emiliano Martínez and Ollie Watkins. And now, with the agreement in place, all that’s left is the formal medical and final paperwork.
If all goes according to plan, Guessand will become the latest addition to Unai Emery’s squad as Villa gear up for a busy season one that includes a return to European competition.
